Betsen could be fit for Wales clash

18 February 2005 14:30pm

France flanker Serge Betsen could take part in France's RBS 6 Nations clash against Wales after all.

The Biarritz back-row forward, who has won 45 caps and is one of coach Bernard Laporte's key players, has been suffering with an injury to his right thigh sustained in Les Bleus's 18-17 victory over England.

It was feared that he might miss the clash with Wales at the Stade de France on February 26.

But medical examinations he underwent on Thursday revealed that he will be able to resume training next Wednesday - three days before the match.

"Serge will be at Orly with the rest of the French team on Sunday evening," confirmed team doctor Thierry Hermerel in L'Equipe on Friday.

"On Monday he will undergo medical examinations and he should be able to start running again on Wednesday.

"And on Wednesday we will make complementary examinations again. The certainty is that next week will be mostly dedicated to rest."

Laporte and team manager Jo Maso hinted two weeks ago that they would only pick fit players.

However, Betsen is considered to be indispensable by his team-mates and that could influence any decision by the coach.

Laporte, whose side are still on course for the Grand Slam after their consecutive wins over Scotland and Andy Robinson's men, will announce his starting line-up on Tuesday.